These days I often get frequent messages from many readers around the globe with regards to my previous posts on the subject of the legendary Franco-Canadian Jazz drummer Claude Ranger. Claude was a force on the Canadian Jazz scene for a number of years, most notably in Montreal and Toronto during the 70s and 80s, and while he disappeared in Vancouver during the late 90s under mysterious circumstances, his influence is undeniable and his playing and personality is the stuff of legends.
I often point people in the direction of Armand Melanson's fine Claude Ranger tribute website www.clauderanger.com to learn more about this incredible drummer.
Many great clips of Claude (including some audio) have recently popped up on youtube.com
- Here is an interesting one of Claude backing up Canadian vibraphonist Peter Appleyard, bassist Slam Stewart and Hank Jones on piano. Dig Claude's fine brushwork at the 1:18 mark:
- Here is a very good CBC documentary on the enigmatic Claude Ranger entitled "Sticks & Stones":
- And here are a number of bootleg recordings of Claude Ranger courtesy of Armand Melanson and these are all really worth taking the time to check out!